Keeping Your Mouth Healthy With Dentures - What to Know
Posted on 1/15/2025 by St. Louis Prosthodontics
Dentures are a common solution for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. They help restore the ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. However, it's important to remember that dentures are not simply replacements for your natural teeth. They require special care and attention to ensure they remain functional and comfortable, and to keep your mouth healthy.
Caring for Your Dentures
Just like natural teeth, dentures need regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and even bone loss. Here's what you need to do:
•
Brush your dentures twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Avoid using toothpaste designed for natural teeth, as it can be too abrasive and damage the dentures.
•
Soak your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution. This helps loosen any remaining debris and kill bacteria. Follow the instructions on the cleaning solution carefully.
•
Handle your dentures carefully. They can be fragile and break easily if dropped.
•
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist. They will examine your dentures and your mouth to ensure everything is healthy and functioning properly.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Even though you don't have natural teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene is still important. This involves:
•
Brushing your gums and tongue twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This helps remove bacteria and stimulate blood flow, which can promote healing and prevent gum disease.
•
Rinsing your mouth regularly with an antiseptic mouthwash. This helps kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
•
Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. They will check for any signs of gum disease or other problems and provide you with professional cleaning.
Tips for Comfortable Dentures
It may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
•
Start by wearing your dentures for short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them. This will give your mouth time to adjust.
•
If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, don't try to adjust them yourself. See your dentist for adjustments.
•
Avoid eating hard or sticky foods, which can damage your dentures.
•
Cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly on both sides of your mouth.
•
Remove your dentures at night to give your gums a rest.
Restoration Dentistry and Dentures
In some cases, restoration dentistry procedures like dental implants can be combined with dentures for improved stability and function. Implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in your jawbone. They act as anchors for dentures, preventing them from slipping or moving around. This can make it easier to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
If you are considering dentures, talk to your dentist about your options. They will be able to help you choose the best type of dentures for your needs and lifestyle, and provide you with instructions on how to care for them properly. With proper care and attention, dentures can help you maintain a healthy mouth and enjoy a full, active life.
About | Dental Implants St. Louis | St. Louis Prosthodontist At St. Louis Prosthodontics, we want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles. Click here to learn about us and how we can help! St Louis Prosthodontics - Joseph Shea DDS, MS, 3701 S Lindbergh Blvd Suite 201, St. Louis, MO 63127 : 314-937-5487 : stlouisprosthodontics.com : 2/22/2025 : Key Phrases: Dental Implants St. Louis :
Dentures are a common solution for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. They help restore the ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. However, it's important to remember that dentures are not simply replacements for your natural teeth. They require special care and attention to ensure they remain functional and comfortable, and to keep your mouth healthy.